For businesses that lift and transport heavy supplies and merchandise regularly, there is probably no more valuable or effective machinery as the lift truck. Lift trucks are a popular site in manufacturing plants, dockyards, lumber yards, distribution depots, warehouses and shipping and receiving, agriculture and other work places which require to deal with loads ranging from 3000 to 30,000 plus pounds.
The forklift is used most frequently to keep the flow of operations running as efficiently and smoothly as possible. Even if forklifts are a big investment, the amount of man hours they could save and the injuries they reduce from heavy lifting can make the purchase pay for itself in little time.
There are numerous different units and manufacturers of lift trucks available on the market. Various models are designed to accomplish different jobs. In order to make certain that you don't purchase more than you require or the wrong type of equipment, it is really vital to evaluate the requirements of your business and compare to the various units offered on the market. Speaking with a qualified forklift distributor is a very good idea and so is doing your own research online.
When looking at lift trucks by fuel type, the following kinds are available:
Electric: The electric forklift is run by lead-acid based rechargeable batteries. These large and heavy batteries could run a machine for more than 5 or 6 straight hours. Electric models are best suited for indoor use due to their lack of emissions. They are a common option for retail spaces and warehouses since they provide a relatively low cost per hour of operation and put zero emissions into the air where people are working.
Internal Combustion: The IC engine works on a variety of different fuels such as compressed natural gas or CNG, others take diesel, LP or liquid propane or gasoline. When compared to electric forklifts, the internal combustion or IC models can carry heavier loads, accelerate faster and are easier to refuel. These units are usually more pricey to utilize compared to their electric counterparts.
Fuel Cell: Hydrogen fuel cell lift trucks are the newest in lift truck technology. These units provide the quietness and zero emissions of electric forklifts but provide the fast refueling capability of an internal combustion model.
There are a range of outdoor Nissan units that provide synchronized steering. This feature returns the wheel knob to the original position automatically after the completion of a turn. Equipped with solid pneumatic tires to provide a comfortable ride both outdoors and indoors, these tires are more resistant to damage and wear.